Master Multi-Tasking: Control Two Macs with One Mouse and Keyboard

As technology evolves, the need to streamline workflows has never been more important. Whether you’re a developer, a designer, or a content creator, managing multiple devices simultaneously is a crucial skill. One of the most effective ways to enhance your productivity is by controlling two Macs with a single mouse and keyboard. In this guide, we’ll show you how to master multi-tasking and improve your efficiency by controlling two Macs seamlessly.

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Why Control Two Macs with One Mouse and Keyboard?

There are many scenarios where controlling two Macs with one mouse and keyboard becomes incredibly beneficial:

Increased productivity: With two Macs on your desk, you can work on multiple tasks at once—writing code on one, while researching on the other. No need to switch between devices or use a second set of peripherals.
Seamless workflow: Instead of moving between different devices and wasting time setting up different keyboards and mice, you can use a single set for both systems.
Efficient multi-tasking: Quickly drag and drop files between Macs or copy and paste content across systems.

Mastering multi-tasking between two Macs is achievable with a few simple tools and steps. Let’s dive into how you can achieve this with ease.

How to Control Two Macs with One Mouse and Keyboard

There are several ways to control two Macs with a single mouse and keyboard, but the best approach involves using software that connects the devices over a shared network. This method is not only cost-effective but also provides a smooth, seamless user experience. Below, we’ll break down the steps to help you set this up and start multi-tasking like a pro.

Step 1: Download the Right Software

The first step is to choose the appropriate software for connecting two Macs. There are a few popular options available:

Synergy: This is one of the most popular and widely used solutions for controlling multiple devices with one mouse and keyboard. It supports cross-platform functionality, so you can control your Mac and a Windows PC or Linux machine as well.
Barrier: Barrier is an open-source alternative to Synergy. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and works flawlessly between two Macs.
ShareMouse: Another great option, ShareMouse provides a simple way to move your mouse seamlessly between computers and copy-paste between them.

For this guide, we’ll be using Synergy, as it offers robust features and is widely regarded for its smooth operation.

Step 2: Install the Software on Both Macs

Once you’ve selected your software, the next step is installation:

Go to the official website of your chosen software (e.g., Synergy) and download the installation files for macOS.
Install the software on both Macs by following the on-screen instructions. You may need to grant administrative privileges during the installation process.
After installation, launch the application on both devices.

Step 3: Set Up the Connection Between the Two Macs

Now that the software is installed, it’s time to set up the connection between your two Macs:

On the primary Mac (the one that will control the other), select the option to act as the “server.” This is the Mac that will share its mouse and keyboard with the secondary Mac.
On the secondary Mac, set it as the “client.” This Mac will respond to the mouse and keyboard inputs from the primary Mac.
Ensure both Macs are on the same Wi-Fi network or are connected via Ethernet for optimal performance.

Once both Macs are configured, the software will automatically detect and connect them. You can now move your mouse cursor from one screen to the other with ease.

Step 4: Fine-Tune Your Settings

To ensure a smooth user experience, you may want to fine-tune your settings. Most software solutions allow you to adjust a few key options:

Mouse behavior: Some programs let you adjust how the mouse moves between screens, whether you want it to “wrap around” or make a hard stop at the edge.
Keyboard shortcuts: Customize keyboard shortcuts for switching between Macs or perform other common tasks with ease.
Screen arrangement: Adjust how the two Macs are positioned relative to one another. For example, if your secondary Mac is physically to the left of your primary Mac, you can set this in the software to match the screen layout.

These settings will help create a more intuitive and productive workflow, allowing you to control both Macs as though they were part of a single system.

Step 5: Start Multi-Tasking

Once everything is set up and adjusted to your liking, you’re ready to start multi-tasking. Use the mouse to seamlessly switch between the two Macs. You can drag and drop files, copy and paste text, or even control apps on each Mac simultaneously.

Troubleshooting Tips for Controlling Two Macs

While controlling two Macs with one mouse and keyboard is usually a smooth process, you may encounter a few issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to resolve common problems:

1. Mouse Cursor Isn’t Moving Between Macs

If you find that the mouse cursor doesn’t move from one Mac to the other, try the following:

Check the network connection on both Macs to ensure they’re on the same Wi-Fi or wired network.
Restart the software on both Macs and check for any software updates that might address connectivity issues.
Make sure that the screen arrangement in the software is correctly configured. For example, if you have two Macs stacked vertically, make sure the software matches that arrangement.

2. Keyboard Shortcuts Not Working

If your keyboard shortcuts aren’t working, it could be due to a configuration issue. Check the keyboard preferences in the software settings and verify that your chosen shortcuts aren’t conflicting with system-wide shortcuts on your Mac.

3. Lag or Delay Between Macs

Lag or delay can occur if both Macs are connected over a slow or unstable network. Try the following:

Switch to a wired Ethernet connection for more stable and faster communication between the Macs.
Ensure no other heavy network traffic is slowing down your connection, such as streaming videos or large downloads.

4. Software Crashing

If the software crashes, make sure you have the latest version installed. Sometimes bugs or glitches can cause issues, and updating the software can resolve many of them. You can check for updates through the software’s settings or visit the developer’s website.

Conclusion

Controlling two Macs with a single mouse and keyboard is a powerful productivity hack that can simplify your workspace and enhance your multi-tasking capabilities. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can set up your Macs to work together seamlessly, whether you’re moving files, using applications, or switching between tasks. With a little customization and fine-tuning, you’ll be able to optimize your workflow and master the art of multi-tasking.

For more tips on maximizing your productivity with Mac devices, check out this helpful guide on managing multiple Mac applications.

This article is in the category Productivity and created by OverClocking Team

Master Multi-Tasking: Control Two Macs with One Mouse and Keyboard